Qatar has announced major and urgent amendments to the Haya Platform under Cabinet Decision No. 16 of 2026, introducing significant changes to the framework governing visitor entry and expanding the system to directly include premium residency applicants.

The decision, published in the Official Gazette on May 7, updates the title of the original regulation to reflect its broader scope, now covering both visitor visas and premium residency processes through a unified digital platform.

The amendments also restructure the permanent committee responsible for managing the platform, chaired by a Ministry of Interior representative and supported by multiple government entities including security, labor, tourism, and technology authorities to ensure coordinated implementation.

Under the new rules, the committee is granted expanded powers to oversee visa issuance, propose exceptional entry procedures, and unify application mechanisms through the Haya Platform, aiming to simplify processes and enhance efficiency.

The decision further highlights continuous review of visa policies, coordination with event organizers, and improved data integration to streamline approvals, accelerate procedures, and deliver a more efficient and secure experience for visitors and residency applicants.